Hurricane prep can feel like your thoughts are scattered all over. You’re checking off items on a never-ending list, keeping an eye on weather alerts, and trying to stay ahead of whatever Mother Nature throws your way. And with your AC system involved, you’re not just thinking about keeping cool — you’re thinking about protecting your investment, your comfort, and your family when the wind picks up and the skies darken.
Let’s explore practical, homeowner-friendly advice on how to protect your air conditioner during a hurricane, including maintenance tips. These steps are especially important for those living along the coast or in regions frequently impacted by the Atlantic hurricane season.
Inspection and Basic AC Maintenance
Start simple: give your outdoor unit a good look over. You’re checking for missing screws, cracked fan blades, loose wiring, debris, or damage that might get worse once the wind starts blowing. Make a note of any issues, like a worn-out capacitor or leaky refrigerant, and call Polar Bear Air Conditioning for AC maintenance in the Cayman Islands.
Inside your home, swap or clean the air filter to promote good indoor air quality. A clean AC filter helps with airflow and prevents mold growth.
Secure the Outside Unit and Cover It
Strong winds can blow various items into your condenser, including branches, lawn chairs, and even pieces of plywood or trash. Find ways to protect your AC system during a hurricane by:
- Moving loose outdoor furniture or garden tools away from the unit.
- Using hurricane straps or chains attached to a sturdy block or concrete pad to hold the condenser in place.
- Covering the unit with a breathable mesh cover.
Trim Trees and Remove Loose Objects
Before a storm, walk around your yard and gather potential projectiles, such as overhanging tree limbs, lawn decorations, flower pots, and children’s toys. These can flex hard enough in high wind to crack your AC housing. Clearing them is an easy way to avoid damage.
Prepare for Power Outages
Loss of electricity is a common occurrence during storms. Protect your system by:
- Turning off the outdoor breaker before the storm. This prevents damage from possible lightning strikes or power surges.
- Switching your smart thermostat to “off” or “emergency heat” mode. When power returns, leave enough time before turning it back on so the refrigerant can re-stabilize.
Check Drainage and Duct Work
Make sure your condensate pump and drain lines are clear so water has somewhere to flow. Otherwise, moisture can back up and leak into your home, causing water damage and mold.
For duct systems in the attic or crawl spaces, check for loose connections or holes that could allow water in. A little foil tape works wonders here.
Service the Compressor and Capacitor
Your compressor is the heart of the system. During maintenance, your technician should check the capacitor, refrigerant levels, and the compressor’s integrity. A weak capacitor can cause hard starts or complete failure, especially after a storm that affects voltage.
This is a big part of preparing your AC for hurricane season, because a small fix now saves you from big repair bills later.
Backup Protection for Electronics
Your AC’s control board is an electronic system. Small power fluctuations during storms can fry it. Ask an expert about surge protectors for your HVAC system. Those devices help safeguard the system’s electronics.
Plan for Humidity and Chill
High humidity and low temperature swings are common post-storm. After restoring power, run your AC on a lower fan setting to dehumidify your home slowly, giving your ducts time to dry. This keeps your air quality fresh and helps prevent mold.
Emergency Ready Kit
Keep an emergency kit to maintain your system safely:
- Flashlight (for breaker panels)
- Extra air filter
- Basic hand tools (screwdrivers, tape)
- Notebook and pen for notes/reminders
- Contact list for your equipment manufacturer and HVAC technician
Review Your Warranty and Coverages
Check whether your AC warranty covers storm-related damage. Some don’t. You might need to pay for service or parts out of pocket. A quick inspection and maintenance service call can help qualify your system for extended coverage.
Long-Term: Invest in Resilient Equipment
If you’re due for a new system, look for:
- A condenser with a strong compressor and capacitator, rated for coastal areas.
- A smart thermostat that can power down after detecting voltage drop.
- Corrosion-resistant components — especially important in the Atlantic hurricane season zones.
These steps are solid ways to protect your AC system during a hurricane in the long run.
Get Ready With Polar Bear
Don’t wait to worry about your AC at the last minute. Polar Bear Air Conditioning has been family-owned and operated since 1988. Our team treats your home like our own, is always honest, and shows us on time. Whether it’s time for routine maintenance or you require an AC repair in the Cayman Islands, you can trust us to never cut corners on quality.
If you need help preparing your AC for hurricane season, give us a call. Our experts will give your system the attention it deserves. Contact us today to schedule your service!
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